Gary Ryan always manages to write entertaining music, and this latest pairing is every bit as good as the others I have seen. The composer’s intention with Benga Beat was to write a lively piece with an African flavor, and here he has been remarkably successful. It begins at a frenetic pace and doesn’t let up for seven minutes, and is therefore quite a handful. But what really takes it into another category altogether is the manner in which Ryan introduces various percussive techniques into the piece-the opening features extensive passages with syncopated 16th notes, often played pizzicato, with numerous percussive bits interwoven throughout. Don’t get me wrong, this piece is wonderful and very clever and effective, but only the best players will be able to cope with its requirements. There is an excellent performance of Ryan performing it on YouTube, so if you have any doubts about what l’m saying, check it out!
-Chris Dumigan (Classical Guitar Magazine)
